02-11-2017, 12:34 PM
Hi Colin,
Just a couple of comments - firstly I'm 6ft 1" and have driven a Nippy and a (short wheelbase) Ulster for many years without any real difficulty. I'd urge you to give it a good try before modifying anything. I do struggle a bit in 'normal' shoes (I'm a size 11) so tend to reserve a pair of canvas 'boat' shoes for the A7; flexible, low profile and rather comfortable; it also saves ruining your day-to-day shoes with oil stains and what have you.
Second, there is no brake servo assistance in an Austin Seven! Most owners try to keep the brake pedal at right angles to the actuation rod in order to secure the best possible mechanical advantage, which you will be needing! Plus as Reckless says, you also don't want to run out of travel.
Finally, if new to Sevens and taking delivery of a 'new' car, I'd urge you to take a good look over the brake linkages and make sure everything is in good shape. Check for any signs of free play, misalignment or binding, as these can seriously sap your braking potential. The long brake rod which is connected to the pedal can suffer fatigue cracks (normally at the screw thread where it's thinnest) and eventual failure. This happened once to me; if it happens to you don't forget the handbrake still works! Anyway it's worth checking it carefully, out of the car if needs be. Replacements are quite easily obtained and fitted.
Hope you enjoy your new treasure!
Just a couple of comments - firstly I'm 6ft 1" and have driven a Nippy and a (short wheelbase) Ulster for many years without any real difficulty. I'd urge you to give it a good try before modifying anything. I do struggle a bit in 'normal' shoes (I'm a size 11) so tend to reserve a pair of canvas 'boat' shoes for the A7; flexible, low profile and rather comfortable; it also saves ruining your day-to-day shoes with oil stains and what have you.
Second, there is no brake servo assistance in an Austin Seven! Most owners try to keep the brake pedal at right angles to the actuation rod in order to secure the best possible mechanical advantage, which you will be needing! Plus as Reckless says, you also don't want to run out of travel.
Finally, if new to Sevens and taking delivery of a 'new' car, I'd urge you to take a good look over the brake linkages and make sure everything is in good shape. Check for any signs of free play, misalignment or binding, as these can seriously sap your braking potential. The long brake rod which is connected to the pedal can suffer fatigue cracks (normally at the screw thread where it's thinnest) and eventual failure. This happened once to me; if it happens to you don't forget the handbrake still works! Anyway it's worth checking it carefully, out of the car if needs be. Replacements are quite easily obtained and fitted.
Hope you enjoy your new treasure!